The Theory of The Leisure Class Main Idea Analysis

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Similarities and differences of theory of leisure class and Veblen's attack on culture
During the 20th century, significant improvement was witnessed during the industrial revolution, men and women who possessed unrestricted income engaged in wasteful consumption of goods and services. The desire for prestige and fame became a common practice instead of reality. The term conspicuous consumption was introduced by Thorstein Veblen to describe the behavior of the upper class and how they wastefully utilized their by displaying their social power and prestige (Ward, 1900).
In one of his writing the theory of leisure class, Thorstein Veblen describes the characteristics of the rich during the second industrial revolution. In his book, he criticizes the developments behind the emergence of the social, cultural and consumption practices which is attributed to one's social status and social standing focusing on the mannerism, impulse and superfluous activities of the upper class (Ward, 1900). Similar sentiments were expressed by Theodor Adorno a German sociologist known for his critics of the culture.
Adorno shared similar beliefs with Veblen; he believed that language is a political construct installed by the dominant classes. Even though Veblen’s theory of leisure class is famous for its idea of conspicuous consumption, Adorno believed that the theory did not explain the fullness of life (Adorno, Weber & Weber, 1967). Even though the element of Veblen sociology is applicable in modern times, Adorno believes that Veblen did not adequately describe the purpose of desire of his thought when describing the barbaric character of culture. This essay analyzes the work of two sociologists, Thorstein Veblen “theory of leisure class" and Theodor Adorno "Veblen's attack on culture” highlighting the similarities and the differences of their ideas.
The Theory of leisure class
Cultural evolution created the leisure class, hence the beginning of ownership. These two elements have resulted from the set of economic forces. In his book, the theory of the leisure class, Veblen criticizes the conspicuous consumption reflecting back by tracing economic behavior during the ancient time. He recounts that people were involved in less intensive labor and high-status individuals were hunters and were less economically productive (Ward, 1900).
A low-status individual engaged in more labor-intensive activities like cooking, farming. Rich people could afford the leisure hence were called leisure class. They lived a life of conspicuous leisure, protected, reproduced social status, and controlled by the tribe (Ward, 1900). However, in the modern industrial time leisure class are exempted from industrial labor but participated in intellectual or artistic activities (Ward, 1900). Labor-intensive activities did not mark high social status, but higher social status meant one was not performing such duties (Ward, 1900).
With industrialization, Veblen emphasizes that wealth gains are of importance because it gives a reputation and respect. The esteem, in this case, gives one the opportunity to gain distinction because it is a manifestation of superior forces. Therefore, the property is the ...